1987 Toyota Corolla GTS review from North America
"Performance and reliability in one package"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
There is very bad rust on bottoms of doors and around wheel holes. It can no longer pass Massachusetts safety standards.
I kept all my repair records.
The total repairs cost was $13019 - about 10 cents per mile.
The worst year was 1999 as the car passed the 200K milestone. Major overhaul was needed ($3900) including all brake components, wheel bearings, rebuilt differential, etc.
General comments?
Purchased for $4000!.
The seller told me that the price was so low because no one else would touch it because of the high mileage!!
The car had every possible option and was wonderfully maintained. The father of the seller owned a Toyota dealership.
It was fun to drive. Up there with my first car, a 1962 Triumph TR3. But the GT-S was warm in the winter.
I got 130K miles over 10 years. and every one was a pleasure. It was such a responsive car. Very adequate power and torque.
Probably I should have junked the car at that point rather than investing more money.
But I loved it and felt that it deserved another chance at life since I was only driving it about 6K miles per year.
I am very sad to see it go.
Recommended reviews
  | Pretty much an OK car |
| The 86 Corolla is a fine economy car and has quality workmanship |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1991 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6L - 16v Manual |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | |
| Distance when acquired | 90000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 219000 miles |
| Previous car | Toyota Corolla |
| Date of Entry | 31st March, 2002 |